He added: "It was incredibly windy. She went a bit further than normal and possibly became disorientated because of the lay of the land. They are like pigeons - they have a homing instinct - but this time Nikita didn't come back."

The majestic predators, which are native to east Russia, are able to pick up dogs and young seals.

Their normal diet in captivity includes frozen pigeons, squirrels and rabbits.

Chris, of Hawk Experience Ltd, said the eagle, which has often entertained the crowds at Warwick Castle, posed no danger to people or animals.

He added: "She has not learnt how to hunt by chasing things around the countryside."